The Aboriginal flag will fly permanently on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge following NAIDOC week celebrations, completing a commitment made by the NSW Government earlier this year.
“From today, one of Australia’s most recognisable landmarks will celebrate our Indigenous people and provide an everyday reminder of our nation’s rich history,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Our nation’s story is rich and enduring and flying the Aboriginal flag permanently above the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a celebration and acknowledgment of that.
“Honouring this commitment is part of our ongoing commitment to recognise the history, culture, excellence and achievements of Aboriginal people and is a fitting end to NAIDOC week 2022.”
The NSW State Flag remains a vital part of our heritage and this will be showcased in a place of prominence as part of the revitalisation of the Macquarie St East precinct redevelopment.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Ben Franklin said the $25 million announced in the NSW Budget to place a permanent third flag pole on the Sydney Harbour Bridge will instead be allocated towards indigenous initiatives.
“This builds on the NSW Government’s commitment to improve outcomes for Aboriginal people across NSW, following a $716 million investment in this year’s Budget to prioritise Closing the Gap initiatives,” Mr Franklin said.
“I am proud to be part of the Government that will permanently fly the Aboriginal flag above the Sydney Harbour Bridge and I am happy that a further investment will be made to deliver real outcomes for Aboriginal people across NSW.”
Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said this is the right decision to ensure the flag can be flown permanently as quickly as possible, whilst recognising the significance of the Aboriginal flag.
“As has been outlined all along, the process of installing a third flagpole high above one of the busiest traffic corridors in Australia was always going to be difficult and this decision ensures the Aboriginal flag can remain permanently,” Mrs Ward.
“The Macquarie Street East precinct redevelopment will now be expanded to include a prominent NSW State flag, which recognises the important and rich history of Macquarie Street to the heritage of NSW.”
